Knokke-Heist (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Knokke-Heist bans all commercial activities at Zegemeer lake to keep it peaceful. Mayor Cathy Coudyser says future requests, like La Réserve’s floating terrace, will be rejected.
As VRT News reported, the Knokke-Heist government has made a final decision about the Zegemeer lake. This follows the hotel La Réserve’s requests to buibelld a floating terrace, which were later withdrawn. Even though nothing was built, the idea caused a lot of discussion.
The government decided that no floating terraces or businesses that would bring in a lot of people would be allowed on or near the lake. This is to stop similar requests in the future and to keep the lake peaceful and beautiful.
What will keep Zegemeer peaceful despite tourism demands?
The local government wants the Zegemeer to stay a quiet, pretty area for everyone, not just those using nearby businesses. Even though La Réserve is important for Knokke’s luxury tourism, the government chose to focus on the public and the environment. They decided not to allow any busy activities on the lake.
Mayor Cathy Coudyser, representing the city, has made it clear how the Zegemeer in Knokke will be used in the future. She explained that the lake belongs to the city and is public property. She mentioned that the Zegemeer is in a crowded residential area, making it a favourite spot for locals.
People often go there to walk, see the famous Panamarenko artwork, sit on benches, or walk their dogs. The mayor also stated that any future requests for commercial activities, like a floating terrace, will be rejected, no matter who suggests them.
“The Zegemeer must remain a peaceful oasis: we will reject any request that comes in”
Cathy Coudyser, Mayor of Knokke-Heist (Insight)
Mayor Cathy Coudyser also explained how the city will handle any new activities around the lake. If the city wants to add something new, like a quiet activity, it won’t give a special deal to just one company, like La Réserve. Instead, there will be a public contest where all companies can suggest ideas that follow the rules.
She mentioned that this makes sure everything is open, fair, and gives everyone a chance. The mayor wants to keep public spaces public and make sure any new projects fit with the lake’s peaceful feel. The city wants the Zegemeer to stay a place for the community.
